The Simco-Ion MEB & MEJ Static Neutralizing Bars and Power Supplies (models D167RY, D167Q, F167, F267, N167, and N267) are designed to eliminate or significantly reduce static charges that disrupt manufacturing processes. This equipment achieves static neutralization by generating both positive and negative ions from surrounding air molecules. The high voltage from the power supply causes the ionizing pins of the static neutralizing bar to create these ions. Static charges on the material being processed attract and combine with the oppositely charged ions, leading to neutralization. Any excess ions either recombine in the air or dissipate to ground.
Function Description:
The core function of the Simco-Ion MEB and MEJ static neutralizing bars is to provide effective static charge elimination in industrial settings. They operate by producing a balanced field of positive and negative ions, which are then attracted to and neutralize static charges present on materials. This process is crucial for preventing issues such as material sticking, dust attraction, and potential electrical shocks that can arise from uncontrolled static electricity. The D167RY, D167Q, F167, F267, N167, and N267 power supplies serve as the high-voltage source for these bars, ensuring consistent and reliable ion generation. The MEB and MEJ bars feature capacitively coupled ionization points, a design choice that enhances safety by preventing hazardous electrical shocks upon contact with the pins, without compromising performance. The power supplies are current-limiting, with a maximum short-circuit current of only 5 mA, offering an additional layer of safety.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Output Voltage: Both MEB and MEJ bars, when paired with the specified power supplies, operate at an output voltage of 7 kV.
- Temperature: The equipment is designed to function effectively in temperatures up to 110°F (43°C) maximum.
- Humidity: It can operate in humidity levels up to 70% RH maximum, provided there is no dewing.
- Dimensions:
- MEB: 5/8"W x 3/4"H
- MEJ: 11/16" dia
- Enclosure Material:
- MEB: Stainless Steel (Type 304)
- MEJ: Aluminum
- Inner Bar Material: Rigid Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) for both MEB and MEJ.
- Emitter Point Material: Stainless Steel (Type 302) for both MEB and MEJ.
- Power Supply Input Voltage and Frequency:
- F167, D167Q, D167RY, N167: 120V, 50/60 Hz (D167Q and N167 are 60 Hz only).
- F267, N267: 230V, 50/60 Hz (N267 is 60 Hz only).
- Power Supply Output Ports:
- F167, D167Q, F267: 2 output ports.
- D167RY, N167, N267: 4 output ports.
- Capacity (EL):
- F167, D167Q, F267: 200″EL (D167Q uses shielded cable).
- D167RY, N167, N267: 300″EL.
- Safety Features: Capacitively coupled ionization points, current-limiting power supplies (max 5 mA short-circuit current).
- Grounding: Essential for all equipment components and the machine frame to which they are mounted.
Usage Features:
- Installation:
- Grounding: Proper grounding of the machine frame, static bar casing, and power supply is critical for safety and optimal operation. The power supply grounds automatically when plugged into a 3-prong outlet; otherwise, it must be bolted to a grounded machine frame or connected via a heavy copper wire to a grounded electrical conduit or water pipe.
- Mounting Static Neutralizing Bars: Bars should extend across the width of the material to be neutralized, with ionization points facing the material. Optimal mounting distances are 1/2" to 1" for MEB bars and 1/4" to 3/4" for MEJ bars from the material. A background of free air space is necessary for proper neutralization. Bars can be located above and/or below a web and should be placed after the material has received its static charge. Additional bars may be required for materials subject to ongoing friction. Mounting brackets provided with each bar should be used, ensuring no ionization points are covered.
- Mounting Power Supplies: Power supplies should be mounted to the machine frame (preferably away from operator contact) or a nearby wall or post.
- Installing High Voltage Cables: Cables from each static bar should be routed along the machine frame or wall to the power supply, maintaining a minimum 1/4" distance from machine parts, walls, and ceilings. If this distance cannot be maintained, cables should be encased in plastic insulating tubing. Spring-loaded cable connectors are installed on the free end of each cable. Before connecting, the power supply must be de-energized, and the protective plastic plug removed from the high voltage connection. Cables are then inserted, and the knurled plug is finger-tightened only.
- Operation: After ensuring all power supplies and static bars are properly grounded and installed, simply energize each power supply to operate the static neutralizing bars.
- Troubleshooting: Only qualified service personnel should perform troubleshooting. Initial steps include de-energizing the power supply, checking ground connections, and ensuring all cable connections are tight (finger-tighten only). A Tension Voltage Detector (Simco-Ion #4050556) can be used to verify high voltage at each ionization point. If points are not working, check for metallic fragments or contamination. If no points work, a diagnostic procedure involving an insulated test wire can determine if the static bar or power supply is faulty.
Maintenance Features:
- Safety First: All power supplies must be de-energized before performing any maintenance tasks to prevent electrical shock. Avoid using hard or sharp objects to scrape ionization points.
- Cleaning: Dust and dirt around ionization points reduce effectiveness. Points must be cleaned periodically to prevent deposits.
- De-energize all power supplies.
- Use dry compressed air to remove loose particulate. For heavy dirt, the static bar may need to be removed and turned upside-down for cleaning. A soft brush with plastic bristles can also be used.
- Press a soft pencil eraser onto each point and gently twist to remove buildup.
- Wipe ionization points with isopropyl alcohol applied to a clean, dry cloth to remove ink or resistant coatings.
- Alcohol Precautions: The isopropyl alcohol used for cleaning must not contain additives. Do not pour alcohol directly onto the bars or soak any components in alcohol. Crucially, ensure all traces of alcohol are removed, and the static bar is completely dry before re-energizing the power supply to prevent fire hazards.
Replacement Parts:
Simco-Ion offers various replacement parts, including MEB and MEJ Bar mounting kits, SLCC HV Connector Kits, Plastic Insulating Tubing, Insulated HV Cable Supports, Cleaning Brushes, and Tension Voltage Detectors.
Warranty:
Simco-Ion products are warranted to be free from defects in materials or workmanship for one year from the date of purchase. The warranty covers repair or replacement of defective equipment. Returns require a Return Authorization Number from Simco-Ion Customer Service. The warranty is void if the equipment has been tampered with, misused, improperly installed, altered, damaged by abuse or carelessness, connected to improper line voltage, serviced by unauthorized personnel, or energized by non-Simco-Ion power supplies or generators.